Duncan research files of
Mary Ann (Duncan) Dobson
the Genealogy Bug
Last revised September 3, 2009
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Duncan research files of |
1896 "Biographical review : this volume contains biographical sketches of leading citizens of Rockingham County, New Hampshire." (anonymous); pub. Boston: Biographical Review Pub. Co. (LH8923, HeritageQuest images 4/2007; FHL book 974.26 D3b and film 1,320,817 item 1)
Pg.632: Henry D. Karr, formerly a well-known resident of Derry, and a representative of an old and highly reputable family in this county, was born here, January 2, 1816, son of David and Hannah (Duncan) Karr. Both parents were natives of Derry, while the father was a sturdy and industrious farmer. (Henry D. Karr married May 25, 1847, to Elizabeth H. Knowles; he died July 10, 1880)
1852 "History of Candia [Rockingham Co. NH] : once known as Charmingfare : with notices of some of the early families" by F.B. Eaton; pub. Manchester, N.H.: Press of the Granite Farmer, J.O. Adams, printer (LH8006, HeritageQuest images 2/2007; FHL book 974.26/C1 H2e)
Pg.65-66, Notices of Early Families: DUNCAN, WILLIAM, was the son of John Duncan and Hannah Henry, born in Londonderry in the year 1771. He came to Candia, Oct. 2, 1798, and bought a store of John Wason, at the Corner. After remaining there about five years, he moved on to the place where John D. Patterson, Esq., now resides. Mr. Duncan was a man of eccentric habits, and extensively known as a merchant. His business in country produce was at one time very large. He married Mary McMurphy, of Londonderry, - had two sons, the youngest of whom, James, died at an early age. The eldest, William H. Duncan, Esq., now resides at Hanover [Grafton Co.], N.H. Mr. D. married a second time Naomi McMurphy, of Londonderry. She lived but a few years and he was a third time married to Elisabeth Patterson. For some years previous to his death, which took place in 1849, he was confined to his room from the effects of a broken limb.
It is said that Robert Henry, the grandfather of Mr. D., sent to Londonderry, in Ireland, by one Capt. Ramsey, for Miss Charity Ash Thompson, who was his destined bride. The captain, on arriving at Boston, although he had received his passage money, sold the young woman to service, pretending he had received no pay. After a time, the news reached the ears of Mr. Henry, the expected wife was found, and the perfidious commander did not escape punishment.
1903 "Historical discourse delivered at the centennial anniversary of the Congregational Church, Candia, N.H., April 5, 1871" (Rockingham Co.) by James H. Fitts; pub. Exeter, N.H.: News-Letter Press (LH8948, HeritageQuest images 5/2007)
Pg.14: The Church in Candia. ... Names of Members. William Duncan and 148 others. On December 31, 1831, the town voted that the Congregational Meeting house be given and granted to the Congregational Society in Candia. ...
Pg.19: It was voted, May 13, 1813, "that with the consent of the Rev. Mr. Remington, Mr. Willm. Duncan have liberty to build a shead easterly of his Dwelling house on the Parsonage land."
Pg.20: Candia, November 9, 1815, the Parsonage lot was sold at public vendue on the fourth day of December, 1815, and on the sixth Day of the same month was conveyed by leases for 999 years ... to the following persons, viz, ... To Daniel Fitts, Moses Fitts and William Duncan 22 acres and 129 rods being the Northwesterly quarter of said lot, [note $815.00.] The ... notes above named ... payable in one year ...
Pg.47: ... Mr. Duncan is paid 25 cents for the same service (auctioneering) in 1804.
Pg.59: A large Council of twelve churches ... met [on 12 January 1819] at the house of William Duncan ...
1882 "History of Rockingham and Strafford Counties, New Hampshire : with biographical sketches of many of its pioneers and prominent men" by John Cutt, Richard Cutt, Joshua Moodey; pub. Philadelphia: J.W. Lewis & Co. (LH9202, HeritageQuest images 5/2007; FHL book 974.2 H2hdh and film 873,682 items 1-2)
Pg.572: Rockingham Co., Londonderry ... In Londonderry the laying of roads began June 19, 1730, at John Duncan's house, now William Clark's.
Pg.583-584: ROBERT CLARK MACK was born in Londonderry, N.H., where he now resides, Dec. 31, 1818. He is the son of Robert and Ann Clark Mack, of Londonderry (more on ancestors not copied) ... March 6, 1856, he married Jane Duncan Patterson, daughter of Capt. Thomas and Hannah (Duncan) Patterson, of Londonderry, N.H.
1851 "The history of Londonderry [Rockingham Co. NH] : comprising the towns of Derry and Londonderry, N.H." by Edward L. Parker, pub. Boston: Perkins and Whipple (LH9318, HeritageQuest images 2/2007; FHL book 974.26 H2p and film 1,033,889 item 6)
Pg.269-272: DUNCAN, GEORGE, son of George, (who lived and died in Ireland) came to this country with the early settlers of Londonderry N.H., accompanied with his second wife, Margaret Cross, and his seven children. They were John, the eldest by a former marriage; and George, William, Robert, Abraham, Esther, and James, by the second marriage. He was a man of education, and was a justice of the peace.
John married Rachel Todd. They brought with them to this country four children; namely, John, George, Abraham, and William. The latter was born on the passage. After their arrival and settlement in Londonderry, they had five other children; namely, James, Naomi, Polly, Rachel, and Rosanna. From this stock are descended John Duncan, Esq., of Londonderry, William H. Duncan, Esq., of Hanover, N.H., and several families of that name in Antrim, and elsewhere. George, son of John, married Mary Bell, youngest daughter of John and Elizabeth Bell. They lived at Peterborough, where she died, about 1811, aged eighty-three. Their children were Elizabeth, who married Rev. Samuel Taggart, member of Congress; Rachel, who married Deacon John Todd, of Peterborough; Sarah; Esther, who married Moses Black, of Boston, Mass.; a daughter, who married Ebenezer Moore, of Peterborough; Mary, who married Rev. Mr. Wallace, and George, who married Jane Ferguson, and removed to Western New York, or Ohio. William, son of John, married Jane Alexander, lived many years in Londonderry, and had three children, Rosanna, Rachel, and Ann. Rosanna married Thomas Lamb, and died about 1849, aged eighty-nine. Thomas Lamb of Boston, is her son. Rachel and Ann left no children. Rachel, daughter of John, married Samuel Archibald, of Nova Scotia, and had several children. Among them was the Hon. Samuel G.W. Archibald, attorney-general of Nova Scotia, who lived at Halifax, greatly respected.
George married Letitia Bell, eldest daughter of John and Elizabeth Bell, and lived in Londonderry. He was an elder in the church, and died about 1780-5, aged about seventy. Their children were as follows: 1. John, who married Mary Duncan, was resident in Antrim, which town he represented in the Legislature, was a State senator, and died in 1822, aged ninety-one. 2. George, who removed to the West. 3. James, Esq., of Hancock. He represented that town in the legislature, and died about 1804. 4. Josiah. 5. Elizabeth, who married James Cunningham, of Pembroke. 6. Letitia, (?) who married Alexander Todd. (MAD: question mark theirs)
William married Naomi Bell, sister of Letitia above mentioned. They lived in Londonderry, where she died, about 1804, aged eighty-nine. Captain Duncan died about 1798, aged eighty-two. Their children were as follows: 1. George, of Acworth, who died unmarried. 2. John, of Acworth, representative and colonel, whose sons were Adam, John, and Horace. 3. William, who died unmarried. 4. Isaac, of Acworth. 5. Rachel, wife of Major John Pinkerton. 6. Susannah, wife of Joseph Patterson of Henniker. 7. Jane, wife of Abraham Duncan. 8. Elizabeth, wife of Thomas Moore, of Acworth. 9. Margaret, wife of William Adams.
Robert moved to Boston, married Isabella Caldwell, and had several children. Among their descendants, are the families of the late Alden Bradford, and William Stephenson, of Boston, and William Thomas, of Plymouth.
Abraham married, lived, and died in North Carolina.
Esther married John Cassan, (?) of Connecticut.
James married Elizabeth Bell, third daughter of John and Elizabeth Bell, and was a merchant in Haverhill, Mass. He acquired a large property, and died about 1818, aged ninety-two. His wife died, aged about forty-seven years. Their children were as follows: 1. John, who died unmarried. 2. Samuel, of Grantham, N.H., who married a Miss Emerson, and had several children. 3. Robert, who was representative of Grantham, married a Miss Emerson; had a son, Samuel B., and died in 1807. 4. Abraham. 5. William, who lived at Concord, N.H., and represented that town. He married a Miss Harris and had a son James, a daughter Mehitable, who married Andrew McClary, a daughter, who married the late George B. Upham, of Claremont, N.H., and a daughter who married a Mr. Shapleigh, of Portsmouth, N.H. He died about 1795. His widow removed to Ohio with her son James, and died in 1835. 6. James, who married Rebecca White, and died about 1822. He had two sons, Col. Samuel, who died about 1824, aged thirty-four, leaving children, and Col. James H., counsellor at law, and representative in Congress, who married Miss Willis, and has a large family. 7. Elizabeth, who married a Mr. Thatcher, a lawyer, and afterwards George Carter, and is living at Boston. 8. Margaret, who is now living, and is the widow of Thomas Baldwin, D.D., of Boston. 9. Mary, and three others.
1883 "The history of Windham in New Hampshire (Rockingham County), 1719-1883 : a Scotch settlement (commonly called Scotch-Irish), embracing nearly one third of the ancient settlement and historic township of Londonderry, N.H., with the history and genealogy of its first settlers and their descendants, and most of the families of its past, and all of its present permanent inhabitants, comprising more than two hundred different family names" by Leonard Allison Morrison; pub. Boston, Mass.: Cupples, Upham & Co. (LH9988, HeritageQuest images 5/2007; FHL book 974.26/W1 H2m and film 1,425,509 item 2)
Pg.591: James Hopkins ... children born in Antrim ... Isebella, b. July 28, 1792; m. George Duncan, Dec. 20, 1814; d. June 26, 1864. (MAD: Antrim, Hillsborough Co. NH)
1869 "History of old Chester : from 1719 to 1869" (Rockingham Co. NH) by Benjamin Chase; pub. Auburn, N.H.: The author (LH8675, HeritageQuest images 5/2007; FHL book 974.26/C3 H2c and film 982,070 item 3)
Pg.49: WILLIAM WHITE was a descendant of a William White first of Ipswich, then of Newbury, and one of the first settlers of Haverhill. William the grantee was a clothier; married Sarah Phillips, and had a son Samuel. Both were large land-holders in Chester. Samuel had a daughter Sarah, who married David Howe, and Rebecca married James Duncan, two leading merchants of Haverhill. The Chester lands descended to Mrs. Duncan, and were called the "Duncan lots." The last was sold to Hon. Richard H. Ayer and Hon. Richard Bradley, about 1832.
Pg.155: February 17, 1791, an act was passed to give Jacob Green, Enoch Noyes, William Duncan and Daniel Livermore, their heirs and assigns, the exclusive right to build a bridge across the Merrimack river ...
Pg.468: BELL. JOHN BELL, though not of the first colony to Londonderry, in 1719, had a grant of land made to him in 1720, in Aiken's range, on which he settled and spent the remainder of his life, and where his son John lived. After commencing a clearing and building a cabin, he returned to Ireland for his wife and two surviving children, in 1722. He was b. in the county of Antrim, 1678, m. Elizabeth Todd, and had two sons and two dau. b. in Londonderry. He d. July 8, 1743; she d. 1771. The daughters, Letitia, Naomi, Elizabeth and Mary, all m. men by the name of Duncan. Samuel, b. Sept. 28, 1723, removed to Cambridge, N.Y.; m. Sarah Storrow. John, b. Aug. 15, 1730, m. Mary Ann Gilmore, dau. of James Gilmore, Dec. 21, 1758. He held various responsible offices. He d. Nov. 30, 1825; she d. April 1, 1822, a. 85. Children ... (MAD: Antrim, Hillsborough Co. NH)
Pg.646: Graduates of Dartmouth. ... 1830. William Henry Duncan, the son of William Duncan and Mary, dau. of ---- McMurphy of Derry, was born at Candia, Sept. 26, 1807; began practice as a lawyer at Hanover, where he still resides.
1905 "Reminiscences of Candia" (Rockingham Co. NH) by Wilson Palmer; pub. Cambridge Mass.: Printed at the Riverside Press (LH8950, HeritageQuest images 5/2007; FHL book 974.26/C1 D3p and film 1,440,391 item 6)
Pg.153-154. There is no record of Candia being represented in the student life at Dartmouth College previous to ... Then followed William Henry Duncan in the class graduating in 1830. Mr. Duncan was a son of the late William Duncan, who for so many years kept a grocery store on the road south of the "Church on the Hill." William H. Duncan ... resided in Hanover for many years, ... Mr. Duncan's wife was a sister of the wife of Rufus Choate. She died early in her married life. I met Mr. Duncan for the last time in Boston a few years before his death. I remember well how at that time he inquired all about Candia, ... (MAD: Hanover, Grafton Co. NH)
1893 "History of the town of Candia, Rockingham County, N.H. : from its first settlement to the present time" by J. Bailey Moore; pub. Manchester, N.H.: G.W. Browne (LH8949, HeritageQuest images 5/2007; FHL film 369,736)
Pg.164: Tax list of 1800: Duncan, William
Pg.191: Rev. Charles P. Russell, the fifth minister of the Congregation ... was licensed to preach in 1831. ... He boarded for a considerable period in the family of William Duncan the trader, and thus came into intimate relations with William Duncan, Jr., his gifted and accomplished son. He [Rev. Russell] in 1839 married to a daughter of Judge William M. Richardson of Chester and went to house keeping in the west part of the dwelling house then owned by Deacon Daniel Fitts ...
Pg.211: Owners of pews in the New Congregational Church ... William Duncan. (no date)
Pg.282: In 1798, William Duncan, who came from Londonderry, established a store in a building which was situated at the Corner near Moore's hall ... until 1803 when he sold out the business to David Pillsbury ... (pg.287) Mr. Duncan ... died in 1849 ...
Pg.319: Professional History of Candia. The men who were raised in Candia, and were graduates of Dartmouth College: 1830 -- William Henry Duncan, son of William Duncan the trader was born in Candia, Sept. 26, 1807. He studied law and opened an office at Hanover. He married a daughter of Mills Olcott of Hanover and was a brother-in-law to the celebrated lawyers, Rufus Choate and Joseph Bell of Boston. He died in 1883. (MAD: Hanover, Grafton Co. NH)
Pg.402-403: Longevity. The following are the names of those persons belonging to the town who died at upwards of 70 years of age so far as has been ascertained. ... 1849. William Duncan, 78.
1867 "Sketches of the alumni of Dartmouth college: from the first graduation in 1771 to the present time, with a brief history of the institution" by George Thomas Chapman; pub. by Riverside press, 1867 (Google book, 8/25/2009)
MAD: "Ms" is "Massachusetts" Dartmouth College, Hanover, Grafton Co. New Hampshire
Alumni 1774. Pg.17: SAMUEL TAGGART, A.M. the son of Matthew and Jane (Anderson) Taggart, was born in Londonderry, Mar. 24, 1754, and died at Colerain, Ms, Apr. 25, 1825, ae. 71. He studied divinity with ... (more not copied). He married, 1. Elisabeth, dau. of George Duncan. 2. Mrs. Mary Ayres, at Washington, D.C. Mar. 23, 1816. He had 17 children. (MAD: Rockingham Co. NH)
Alumni, 1830. Pg.252: WILLIAM HENRY DUNCAN, A.M. the son of William and Mary (M'Murphy) Duncan, was born at Candia, Sept. 26, 1807. He read law with Chancellor Benjamin Faneuil Dunkin of Charleston, S.C. and came to the bar there; began practice at Hanover and has continued it with brief intervals to the present time. He married Sarah Murdock, dau. of the Hon. Mills Oleott, D.C. 1790, of Hanover, June 25, 1834. (MAD: Candia, Rockingham Co. NH)
Alumni, 1857. Pg.427: ROBERT HENRY DUNCAN, the son of Samuel Bell, and Ruth Knox (Ticknor) Duncan, was born at Meriden, Nov. 12, 1833. He taught at Meriden 1 year; read law with the Hon. Jonathan Kittredge, D.C. 1813; then taught the Friends School at Providence, R.I. from 1859 to Oct. 1860; renewed legal study with Pennington, Sullivan and Harrison of N.Y. city until May 1862. Samuel Augustus Duncan, D.C. 1858, is his brother. (MAD: see Rockingham Co. NH)
Alumni, 1858. Pg.434: SAMUEL AUGUSTUS DUNCAN, A.M. the son of Samuel Bell and Ruth Knox (Ticknor) Duncan, was born at Meriden, June 19, 1836. He was Principal of the High School at Quincy, Ms., from Sept. 1858 to July 1860; then tutor at Dart. from Sept. 1860 to July 1862; also commissioner of schools for Grafton Co. from July 1861 to July 1862; became Major of the 14th reg. of N.H. vols in Sept. 1862; promoted Col. of the 4th reg. of U.S. vols Sept. 4, 1863; commanded a coloured brigade from Jan. 20 to Sept. 29, 1864; that day was wounded at New Market Heights, Va, and was brevetted on the spot a Brig. General of the U.S. vols. for gallantry and meritorious conduct; has been of late a Special Agent of the U.S. Treas. Department. Robert Henry Duncan, D.C. 1857, is his brother. (MAD: see Rockingham Co. NH)
Alumni 1866. Pg.474: BENJAMIN OSGOOD TRUE, the son of Reuben and Hannah (Duncan) True, was born at Plainfield, Dec. 17, 1845. He is a student of divinity at Newton Theo. Sem. Ms. (MAD: Rockingham Co. NH)
"Norwich University, 1819-1911 : her history, her graduates, her roll of honor" (Norwich University, Northfield, Washington Co. VT) by William Arba Ellis, ca 1911; v.2 sketches of trustees, etc. (FHL book 974.34/N2 J2e v.2)
Vol.2, pg.5: HON. WILLIAM HENRY DUNCAN, A.M. William H. Duncan, son of William and Mary (McMurphy) Duncan, was born in Candia, N.H., September 26, 1807, and died in Hanover, N.H., March 29, 1883. He graduated from Dartmouth College in 1830, and later received the degree of A.M. from that Institution. He studied law with Chancellor Benjamin Fanueil Duncan of Charlestown, S.C., and was admitted to the bar in that state. He practiced his profession in Hanover, 1834-70. He was an active friend of "N.U.," (MAD: Norwich University) serving as trustee during 1840-49. He was married June 25, 1834, to Sarah Murdock, daughter of the Hon. Mills Olcott of Hanover. (MAD: Candia, Rockingham Co. NH; Hanover, Grafton Co. NH)
"The bench and bar of New Hampshire : including biographical notices of deceased judges of the highest court, and lawyers of the province and state and a list of names of those now living" by Charles H. Bell; pub. Boston : Houghton, Mifflin and Co., 1894 (FHL book 974.2 U2b)
Pg.325-326, Deceased Lawyers: WILLIAM HENRY DUNCAN, son of William and Mary (McMurphy) Duncan; born, Candia, September 26, 1807; Dartmouth College, 1830; practiced, Haverhill and Hanover; died, Hanover, March 29, 1883.
Mr. Duncan was of Scotch-Irish descent, and prided himself upon it, not a little. His father kept a country store, and was in easy circumstances. The son had a taste for study, and completed his preparatory course at Phillips Exeter Academy. He graduated from college with the honor of the valedictory address, which was assigned to him, one of the three best scholars of his class, it is said on account of his graceful manner and oratorical powers. He was also selected to deliver the Master's oration three years later.
He chose the law for his profession, on which, or some other account, his father refused to do anything further for his support, and he was compelled to resort to teaching. He pursued that occupation in Charleston, South Carolina, for about four years, at the same time studying law under the direction of Benjamin F. Dunkin, and there was called to the bar. Returning to New Hampshire, he began to practice at Haverhill, but in a little time was induced by the failing health of his father-in-law, Mills Olcott, who required his aid to manage his extensive concerns, to settle in Hanover. There he passed the residue of his life. His practice at one period was somewhat extensive, but as his wife's delicate health rendered it necessary for him to accompany her every winter for many years to Florida, his law business naturally fell off, and towards the close of his life occupied but little of his time. Still he loved his profession, and as long as his health and strength permitted, attended the sessions of the courts. He was well versed in the learning of the law, but he had no relish for the rude contests of the country forum. He had a certain fastidious taste that held him aloof from all that was ostentatious, aggressive, or discourteous. Hence his practice in court was necessarily limited. But on those rare occasions when he was called on to make a public address, he charmed all his hearers by his captivating manner, his fitly chosen language, and the dignity and appropriateness of his sentiments. On one occasion when he was a member of the legislature, a speech that he made attracted so much attention and commendation, that it was quite in his power to have made it a stepping-stone to political prominence, if he had wished. But he had no taste for political strife.
In private life Mr. Duncan was most estimable: a good citizen, a model husband, a true friend, and a delightful companion. He had enjoyed the advantages of the most cultivated society, and the friendship of many able and distinguished men. His manners were courtly, and based upon a kindly heart. He conversed with fluency and elegance, and his memory was stored with an abundance of anecdotes, which he related with admirable zest and point. The lack of ambition, the easy pecuniary circumstances which his marriage brought him, as well as his dislike for publicity and contention, prevented him from exerting his best powers in his profession or in letters. He was content with being a scholar and a gentleman.
In 1851 he was made a lonely man by the death of his childless wife. After that he became almost a recluse in his chambers in a public block in Hanover. For the last year or two of his life his health was very feeble. His death was deeply regretted by those who best knew his amiable qualities and the trials he had undergone.
His marriage with Sarah M. Olcott was solemnized at Hanover, June 25, 1834. (MAD: Candia, Rockingham Co. NH; Hanover, Grafton Co. NH)
1876 "History of the town of Peterborough, Hillsborough County, New Hampshire : with the report of the proceedings at the centennial celebration in 1839, an appendix containing the records of the original proprietors, and a genealogical and historical register" by Albert Smith, pub. Boston: Press of G.H. Ellis (LH9364, HeritageQuest images 2/2007; FHL book 974.28/P1 H2s and film 1,036,398 items 1 and 2)
Pgs.60-61: 1. GEORGE DUNCAN was the son of John and Rachel Todd Duncan, and grandson to George Duncan, who emigrated to America, and lived and d. in Londonderry [MAD: Rockingham Co. NH]. We are unable to fix the time he came to town, but it was quite early. Most of his children were born in Londonderry. He lived on the farm afterwards occupied by Capt. Isaac Hadley. He m. Mary Bell, dau. of John and Elizabeth Bell. She d. at Peterborough, Jan. 23, 1812, ae. 84 yrs. He d. May 29, 1810, ae. 86 yrs. He was selectman in 1788, '89.
2. Betsey, b. ----; m. Rev. Samuel Taggart, of Colerain, Mass.
3. Rachel, b. 1759; m. John Todd.
4. Esther, b. ----; m. Moses Black; r. Boston.
5. Rosanna, b. 1765; m. Ebenezer Moore.
6. + George, Jr., b. June 10, 1767; m., 1st w., Jane Ferguson; 2d w., Betsey Taylor.
7. Sarah, b. ----; m. Robert McClellan, Colerain.
8. Mary, b. ----; m. Rev. Hugh Wallace; r. Pompey, N.Y.; d. 1802.
1-6. GEORGE DUNCAN, JR., settled near his father's farm, long occupied afterward by William Gray, and now owned and occupied by the widow of Charles S. Gray. He was a man of talents, and was held in high estimation by his townsmen when he removed to the West. He held various offices in town; was selectman 1805, '6, '7, '8, '9; surveyor of highways many years, from 1798 to 1807. He m., 1st w., Jane Ferguson, dau. of Henry Ferguson, March, 1798. She d. Jan. 16, 1802, ae. 29 yrs. She left one ch., Mary, who m. Judge Daniel Wells in 1824, of Greenfield, Mass. He m., 2d w., Betsey Taylor, widow of Charles Taylor, Dec. 2, 1805. She was the mother of the rest of his children. She d. at Preble, N.Y., Jan. 1, 1829, ae. 52 yrs. He m., 3d w., Annis Orr. She d. Feb. 9, 1868, ae. 78 yrs. He re. to Preble, N.Y., in 1813, and d. there Sept. 13, 1851, ae. 84 yrs.
9. Mary, b. Dec. 28, 1798; m. 1824, Judge Daniel Wells; r. Greenfield, Mass.; he d. June 22, 1854.
10. Jane F., b. ----; m. Silas Cummings, Preble, N.Y.
11. Henry, b. ----; d. in Byron, N.Y.
12. George, b. ----; d. in California.
13. Daniel, b. ----; d. Weedsport, N.Y.
14. Elizabeth, b. ----; m. Andrew Godcheus, Homer, N.Y.
1852 "History of the town of Antrim [Hillsborough Co.], N.H. for a period of one century : from 1744 to 1844" by John M. Whiton, pub. Concord N.H.: Steam power press of McFarland & Jenks. (LH8678, HeritageQuest images 2/2007; FHL film 1,464,011 item 2)
Pg.54-55: JOHN DUNCAN, afterwards Esquire, was the great-grandson of George Duncan, who lived and died in Ireland. His son, George, emigrated to America soon after 1720, settled in Londonderry [Rockingham Co. NH], was a magistrate, and a promient citizen. Deacon George Duncan, son of Second George, married a Bell, a descendant of a Scottish emigrant, who settled in Ireland in 1612, and was the father of Esq. John, of Antrim. He removed his family here, 1773, making the seventh in town. He was long an eminent citizen, being selectman, town-clerk, magistrate, representative, and senator. In one instance he was Speaker of the House, pro. tem. His cheerfulness, candor and integrity won him many friends. As a magistrate, ...(more not copied here.) Mr. Duncan closed his long life, 1823, aged eighty-nine; it being justly said at his funeral that no man in town had done more good. His only son William, died, 1846, leaving the old homestead to the present Josiah Duncan. John's grandmother was a native of one of the Orkney Islands, on the north of Scotland.
1880 "History of the town of Antrim, New Hampshire : from its earliest settlement to June 27, 1877, with a brief genealogical record of all the Antrim families" [Hillsborough Co. NH] by W.R. (Warren Robert) Cochrane, pub. Manchester, N.H.: Mirror steam printing press (FHL book 974.28/A2 H2c; SLC 9/2007; see also Rockingham Co. NH)
MAD: see the Hillsborough Co. NH file for the text from this history.
1889 "The history of Hancock, New Hampshire, 1764-1889" [Hillsborough Co. NH] by William Willis Hayward; pt.1 History of Hancock; Pt.2 genealogical register; pub. Lowell, Mass.: S.W. Huse (FHL film 1,036404 item 1 & 2; SLC 9/2007; see also Rockingham Co. NH)
MAD: see the Hillsborough Co. NH file for the text from this history.
1869 "History of Acworth [Sullivan Co. NH], with the proceedings of the centennial anniversary, genealogical records and register of farms" ed. by Rev. J. L. Merrill. town historian, pub. Acworth, N.H.: by the town [Springfield, Mass.: Press of S. Bowles & Co.] (LH7996, HeritageQuest images 2/2007; FHL book 974.275/A1 H2m and film 1,035,574 item 7)
MAD: see the Sullivan Co. NH file for the text from this history.
1908 "Genealogical and family history of the state of New Hamphire : a record of the achievements of her people in the making of a commonwealth and the founding of a nation" 4 vols., ed. by Ezra S. Stearns, William F. Whitcher & Edward E. Parker, pub. by Lewis Publishing Co. (from Mary Louise Robertson 1/1997; FHL book 974.2 D2s and film 1,000,198 and films 1,550,331 and 1,550,332, and fiche 6,046,857)
Pgs.607-8: DUNCAN. This family has the distinction of being the first one of the name established in NH; its immigrant progenitor was one of those who left Ireland because of oppressions and privations suffered there on account of his religion, and like most of his co-religionists made a good citizen in early NH, and left a worthy progeny.
(I) George Duncan was a native of Scotland, and at the time of the great exodus of the Scots of Argyle to Ireland, he accompanied them.
(II) George (2), son of George (1) Duncan, the Scotchman, was born, lived and died in Ireland.
(III) George (3), son of George (2) Duncan, was born in Ireland, and was the first Duncan in NH; he brought over his second wife, Margaret Cross, and seven children: John, George, William, Robert, Abraham, Esther, and James.
(IV) John, eldest son of George (3) Duncan, and only son of his first wife, married Rachel Todd, in Ireland. He brought with him five children, and had five in this country; they were: John, George, Abraham, Margaret, William (born on the passage over), James, Naomi, Polly, Rachel, and Rosanna; he lived all his days in Londonderry, was an elder in the church, enjoyed the confidence of all, and died in good old age.
(V) John (2), first child of John (1) and Rachel (Todd) Duncan, mar. Hannah Henrey. Though hardly more than a boy, he was engaged to marry her before the voyage to this country. He came over, prepared a place to live, and then sent for her. Her brother there paid her passage, and agreed with the captain to land her in Boston, but he took her to Nova Scotia, and sold her to pay her passage, and left her among strangers. But after a time John heard of her sad fate, hunted her up, and married her. The false captain was eventually punished for his crime. ... John Duncan ... kept the first store in the present town of Londonderry. Many of the race were merchants. John and Hannah had a large family among whom were: John and Robert, the subject of the next paragraph.
(VI) Robert, son of John and Hannah (Henry) Duncan, was born in 1763, and 1787 removed to Antrim. .... He bought of Daniel McFarland, but was sued by parties from Weare who claimed the land, and he had to pay for it a second time. After all was settled he married Grizzy Wilson, of Londonderry, lived a quiet and industrious life, and died on the spot he had settled, Sept. 26, 1837, at the age of 73. His children were: Thomas W., Hannah, Sarah, died young, John, Grizzy, Sarah, Jane and William, the subject of the next paragraph.
(VII) William, youngest child of Robert and Grizzy (Wilson) Duncan, was born in Antrim, Oct. 30, 1806; in 1830 he built on the east part of his father's farm where he cleared most of the land, and resided there until his death. He married, Feb. 13, 1831, Betsey W. Rice, of Henniker, who died Aug. 26, 1870, aged 61. Their children were: George, William H., John E., Caroline E., and Moses G., subject of the paragraph next following.
(VIII) Moses G., known as "Granville," fourth son and youngest child of William and Betsey W. (Rice) Duncan, born in Antrim, July 20, 1841; ... now one of leading men of his town; he lives on the old homestead about 3 miles from Antrim village, where he has about 225 acres of farming land and 75 acres of woodland; in addition to this he has a large tract of land in Dakota. Democrat. He married, Oct. 3, 1872, Augusta Spaulding, born March 30, 1843, dau. of Leonard and Edith (Torrington) Spaulding, of Francestown; parents of five children: Edith A., Annie E., Harry, Ethel and Grace M. ... Harry mar. Dec. 25, 1905, May Kimball, of Hancock, they reside in Lowell, MA.
MAD: This family is referred to extensively in the following:
"A History and Genealogy of John Chapman Duncan and Teresa Ann Ferrell: Their Ancestors and Descendants" Compiled by Ivan Perry, Archie Perry and Rolland Perry, Provo, Utah, 1980. (FHL book 929.273 D912p)
"The Essex Institute Historical Collections" Issued Quarterly, Salem, Mass. Printed for the Essex Institute; Vol.LXXXVI, 1950, pg.247; Vol.LXXXVII, 1951, pg.242; Vol.LXXXVIII, Jan.1952, pg.1; and Vol.LXXXIX, Jan. 1953, pg.19. (from Iris Grimmett 12/1986)
"Colonial Families of Southern States of America; immigrants to New England 1700-1775" compiled by Ethel Stanwood Bolton, The Essex Inst. 1931 (from Charles A. Duncan 10/1989)
Vol.21, pg.149, for Albert Greene Duncan, and Vol.44, pg.544-5, for Frederick Smyth Duncan in "The National Cyclopedia of American Biography," (CA State Library, Sacramento)
"The Abridged Compendium of American Genealogy" by Virkus for Albert Greene Duncan (from Laura Jones 8/1983)
1886 "Gazetteer of Grafton County, N.H., 1709-1886" by Hamilton Child; pub. Syracuse, N.Y.: H. Child (LH8920, HeritageQuest images 5/2007 & 7/2007; FHL film 547,180 and 1,000,200 item 3)
Pg.80: Hanover. ... William H. Duncan, was of Scotch-Irish blood, a native of Candia. He graduated from the college in 1830, with the highest honors, and read law at Charleston S.C. He practiced at Haverhill a year or two, and came to Hanover in 1837. He died in 1883, aged 75 years. He had the advantage of a graceful manner, scholarly talker, ready wit, extraordinary power of expression, and attractive social qualities. (MAD: Candia, Rockingham Co. NH)
1888 "History of Haverhill, N.H." (Grafton Co.) by J.Q. Bittinger; pub. Haverhill, N.H.: Printed at Cohos Steam Press (LH9238, HeritageQuest images 5/2007; FHL film 1,033,777 item 3)
Pg.271-274: Lawyers. WILLIAM H. DUNCAN. This gifted person was born in Candia, then a part of Londonderry, in 1807, and was an only child. His father, William D., and his mother whose maiden name was Mary McMurphy, were both Scotch Irish. His early years were passed in his father's store, for which, however, he had little taste and soon after he entered Pinkerton Academy, Derry, to fit for college. He graduated from Dartmouth in 1830, being amongst the more mature members of his class, and having for his commencement part the valedictory. Three years later he gave the master's oration. (MAD: Candia, Rockingham Co. NH)
Mr. Duncan's fascinating manners and brilliant talents made him a favorite with the young ladies of Hanover, one of whose most beautiful and accomplished belles, Sarah Olcott, daughter of Mills Olcott, a distinguished citizen and lawyer of that place, he afterwards married. Two of Mr. Olcott's daughters were already married, one to Rufus Choate and another to Joseph Bell, ...
After leaving college Mr. Duncan went South and engaged in teaching school for some years. Meantime he studied law, and was admitted to the bar in Charleston, S.C. He returned to New Hampshire in 1834 and was married to Sarah Olcott, and began the practice of the law at Haverhill, but in a few years, on account of Mr. Olcott's failing health, he returned to Hanover to assist his father-in-law in his multiplied business. The large practice which he soon acquired was interrupted by the health of his wife, which made it necessary for him to pass the winters in the South, and this professional interruption was greatly aggravated by the settlement of Mr. Olcott's large estate as well as that of Mrs. Olcott, the former dying in 1845, the latter in 1848. Mrs. Duncan died in 1850, which greatly broke him up, and in a measure he withdrew from very active participation ... He led meantime a quiet and lonely life in Hanover for thirty years. ... boarding at the hotel. ... In politics a conservative Democrat, in religion a most devout Episcopalian. He died in 1883 and was buried at Hanover. (MAD: nothing said of children.)
1897 "History of the bench and bar of New York" by Charles P. Daly; ed. by David McAdam & others; pub. New York: New York History Co. (LH6761, HeritageQuest images 6/2007; FHL book 974.7 D3m v.1&2 and film 982,353 items 1-2)
Vol.1, pg.552: DUNCAN, FREDERICK SMYTH (born in East Washington, New Hampshire, September 30, 1868), is the son of General Samuel A. and Julia Jones Duncan. He was graduated at the Phillips Exeter Academy in 1886 and at Harvard in 1890, studied law at the Columbia College Law School and with James G. Gardner, of New York City, was admitted to the bar in May, 1892, and has since practiced in this city. (MAD: East Washington, Rockingham Co. NH)
1888 "History of Essex County, Massachusetts : with biographical sketches of many of its pioneers and prominent men" by William T. Davis; pub. Philadelphia: J.W. Lewis & Co. (LH4639; HeritageQuest 5/2007; FHL book 974.45 H2h v.1-2 and film 1,000,066 and 897,102-897,103)
Pg.xlvi-xlviii: HON. JAMES HENRY DUNCAN was born in Haverhill, Mass., December 5, 1793. On the paternal side he was of Scotch-Irish descent. His great-grandfather, George Duncan, was one of the colony that came from Londonderry, Ireland, and settled in Londonderry, N.H., 1719. His grandfather, James, came to Haverhill about 1740, where he established himself as a merchant. He died in 1818, aged ninety-two years. He had ten children, the sixth of whom was James, who married Rebecca White, and died January 5, 1822, aged sixty-two years. He left two children -- Samuel White, who died October 21, 1824, and James Henry, of this sketch. On the maternal side the family of Mr. Duncan covers the entire history of Haverhill, a period of more than two centuries, and on the paternal side the three generations cover more than half of this period. (MAD: Londonderry, Rockingham Co. NH)
Mr. Duncan early evinced a fondness for books, and at the age of eleven years he was sent to Phillips' Academy at Exeter, N.H., then the leading classical school in the country. ... At the age of fourteen he entered Harvard College. He was graduated in due course, in the class of 1812, ... Study of law, ... in 1815 he was admitted to the Essex bar, and entered upon practice at Haverhill. For several years Mr. Duncan gave his entire time to his profession; but the death of his father, January 5, 1822, left him in the charge of a considerable estate, which gradually withdrew him from its duties, though he did not wholly relinquish practice until 1849, when he took his seat in Congress. ... (MAD: text from the resolutions of the Essex bar, passed after the death of the Honorable James H. Duncan) ...
A short time previous to his admission to the bar, he was elected major in the Haverhill Light Infantry; and, passing through the various grades of militia service, he rose to the rank of colonel, by which title he was afterwards commonly addressed. ... Member of the Agricultural Society, and from 1836 to 1838 its president. ... (MAD's extract) Whig party in 1827 elected to the State Legislature and in the three succeeding years to the Senate ... in 1837-38 again in the House, and in following two years he was a member of the Council. 1857 he was again elected to the Legislature. 1841 was made Commissioner in Bankruptcy ... in 1839 elected a delegate to the convention at Harrisburg ... in 1848 chosen to represent his district in the national Congress, and was re-elected in 1850. (speech by Hon. Amos Tuck of Exeter, at the time the United States Senator from New Hampshire, after the decease of James H. Duncan) ... Member First Baptist Church in Haverhill, ...
Mr. Duncan remained single till the age of thirty-three, when, June 28, 1826, he married Miss Mary Willis, daughter of Benjamin Willis, Esq., of Boston. Thirteen children were born to them. Three died in early childhood, and three passed away after they had attained to adult years, leaving seven, -- two sons and five daughters. His home, of which Mr. Duncan was pre-eminently the head, was the centre of a liberal culture ... (MAD: children not named) ... Mr. Duncan's last illness was brief ... he was seventy-five years old, ... February 8, 1869. (MAD: pg.xlvi_a was picture)
1908 "Genealogy and Personal Memoirs relating to families of Boston and Early Massachusetts" by William Richard Cutter; pub. 1908, Lewis Pub. Co. (FHL film 1,035,606 item 3 and books 974.461 D2c v.1-4; an image of the pages is online through the FHL catalog, 7/17/2008) (MAD: see Rockingham Co. NH; Haverhill, Essex Co. MA)
Pg.960-961: The Duncan family is one of the foremost in Scotland, and is believed to be of ancient Norse origin. Before 1700 the family was well established in Forfarshire, Scotland. In the Duncan family are held the earldoms of Camperdown, Gleneagles and Lundie; the viscountcy of Duncan; the barony of Lundie, and many disting[u]ished men of this family have lived in Scotland during the past few centuries. In 1861 the census showed that of the name Duncan 12,467 persons lived in Scotland. In 1890 forty-one children of this surname were born in Ireland, of whom twenty-five were in the Scotch counties of Antrim and Tyrone. A branch of the family went from Scotland to these counties in the North of Ireland as early as 1700.
(I) George Duncan, ancestor of the family here given, lived and died in Antrim county, Ulster Province, Ireland, or in that vicinity.
(II) George Duncan, son of George Duncan (I), was born in the north of Ireland and came with the Scotch-Irish pioneers to Londonderry, New Hampshire, with his second wife, Margaret Cross, and seven children. He was a man of ability and education, became justice of the peace, and a prominent citizen. Child by first wife: I. Deacon John, born in Ireland, 1729, died November 15, 1799, and is buried in the old Hill graveyard at what is now Derry, New Hampshire; married Rachel Todd and Hannah ----, who died January 5, 1789, aged fifty years. Children of George and second wife: 2. George Jr., married Letitia, eldest daughter of John and Elizabeth Bell; elder of the Presbyterian church; wife died May 5, 1767, aged fifty-seven years; was founder of the Antrim, New Hampshire family of this name. 3. Captain William, married Naomi, sister of Letitia Bell; he died in 1798, aged eighty-two years, six months (gravestone); she died September 1, 1807, aged eighty-eight. 4. Robert, born 1735, died February 10, 1759, at Londonderry, aged twenty-six years, four months; removed to Boston; married Isabella Caldwell. 5. Abraham, removed to North Carolina; had descendants there. 6. Esther, married John Cassan, of Connecticut. 7. James, mentioned below.
(III) James Duncan, son of George Duncan (2), born in Ireland, in 1726, died in Haverhill, 1818, aged ninety-two years. He married Elizabeth, third daughter of John and Elizabeth Bell. His wife died at the age of forty-seven. He was a general merchant at Haverhill and accumulated a large property. Children: 1. John, died unmarried. 2. Samuel, settled in Grantham, New Hampshire; married ---- Emerson, several children. 3. Robert, married ---- Emerson; died 1807; had son Samuel. 4. Abraham. 5. William, resided at Concord, New Hampshire; married Dollie Harris. 6. James, mentioned below. 7. Mary. 8. Elizabeth, married John Thatcher, lawyer; second, Joshua Carter; lived in Boston, Massachusetts. 9. Margaret, married Thomas Baldwin, D.D., of Boston. Three others.
(IV) James Duncan, son of James Duncan (3), was born about 1765, in Haverhill. (One James Duncan was in the revolution in 1781 in Captain John H. Wendell's company, Colonel Goose Van Schaick's regiment, of New York, residence presumably Massachusetts, but town not given). James Duncan married Rebecca White, of Haverhill, descendant of William White, one of the first settlers of Haverhill. Children: 1. Colonel Samuel, born 1790, died October 21, 1824. 2. Col. James H., mentioned below.
(V) Colonel James Henry Duncan, son of James Duncan (4), born in Haverhill, Massachusetts, December 5, 1793, died there February, 1869. He received his first instruction in the public schools of his native town, and early in life developed habits of study and a love of books. He fitted for college at Phillips Academy, Exeter, New Hampshire, and at the age of fourteen entered Harvard College, where he attained high rank, and in 1812 was graduated with an honorable part. He studied law in the offices of Hon. John Varnum, of Haverhill, and Leverett Saltonstall, Esq., of Salem, and was admitted to the bar in 1815. He began the practice of his profession in his native place and soon attained distinction. He remained in the active pursuit of his profession for nearly thirty-five years, and when he retired upon taking his seat in congress, was among the leaders of the bar, famous for his fidelity, integrity and successful application to the duties of the hour. ... (MAD: more on military and political career, not copied here) He owned a handsome residence and maintained a fine estate at the corner of Main and Summer streets in Haverhill, formerly owned by Moses B. Moody. ... It is now the home of the Pentucket Club.
He married, June, 1826, Mary Willis, born 1805, daughter of Benjamin and Mary (McKinstry) Willis. Children: 1. James Henry, Jr., born August, 1827, died December 31, 1858. 2. Rebecca White, born 1831, died 1871. 3. Mary Willis, born 1833; widow of Robert Harris, of New York City. 4. George, born 1835, died 1840. 5. Susan R., born 1837, died 1857. 6. Samuel W., born 1838, died 1898; was minister of Baptist church, and took high rank as a minister. 7. Rosanna, born 1840, died 1860. 8. Elizabeth, born 1842, died 1886; married Rev. Theodore T. Munger. 9. George W., born 1845, died 1884, in Rome. 10. Caroline, born 1846. 11. Margaret, born 1847. Two others died in infancy.
1910 "Genealogical and Personal Memoirs Relating to the Families of the State of Massachusetts" Vol.1 and 4, ed. by William Richard Cutter, A.M., assisted by William Frederick Adams; pub. by Lewis Historical Publishing (SLC 9/2007) (MAD: see Rockingham Co. NH)
Vol.4 (FHL fiche 6,051,241)
Pg.2174-2175: BELL. The Bell family of this sketch is of very ancient Scotch ancestry. (MAD: much more not copied on the early Bell family) John Bell, progenitor of the ninth, thirteenth and forty-first governors of New Hampshire, was born in the vicinity of Coleraine, probably in the parish of Ballymony, county Antrim, Ireland, in 1678, and died in Londonderry, New Hampshire, July 8, 1743, aged sixty-four years. He was not of the first company of Scotch-Irish who founded Nutfield, now Londonderry, New Hampshire, in April 1719, but he was there in 1720, and received a grant of sixty acres in the Aiken Range, where he and his son John afterward lived. He returned to Ireland in 1722, having cleared his farm and prepared a house, and brought his wife and two surviving daughters, two of his children having died in infancy. He was a useful and respected citizen and held various offices. He drew lands amounting in all to three hundred acres. He married in Ireland, Elizabeth Todd, daughter of John and Rachel (Nelson) Todd, sister of Colonel Andrew Todd. She died August 30, 1771, aged eighty-two years. Children: 1. Samuel, born September 28, 1723; removed to Cambridge, New York. 2. Letitia, married Deacon George Duncan. 3. Naomi, married Captain William Duncan. 4. Elizabeth, married James Duncan. 5. Mary, married George Duncan. 6. John, married Mary Ann Gilmore.
William Bell, of Palmer, Massachusetts, said to be John's son by the history of Palmer, married Elizabeth ---- and had a large family of children between 1736 and 1757. The list of children as given above is on the authority of Parker's history of Londonderry. If William were a son of John, Thomas, mentioned below, may be also. Both were certainly related to the Londonderry settler very closely. Many of the Londonderry people came to Palmer and Colerain to settle.
(I) Thomas Bell, immigrant ancestor, son or nephew of John Bell, mentioned above, was born in Ireland, doubtless at Ballymony, near Coleraine, county Antrim, in 1717. He died September 1, 1789, aged seventy-two, at Coleraine, Massachusetts. He married in Boston, October 18, 1743, Esther Bell, sister of James, who was a cousin of Thomas Bell. She died at Coleraine, April 17, 1782, aged sixty-five years. The history of East Boston by Somers states that he went to Derry (Londonderry), New Hampshire, and afterward lived at Roxbury, Massachusetts. ... (MAD: much more on his family and his son Walter Bell born May 18, 1759, not copied) (MAD: Coleraine, Franklin Co. MA)
1880 "History of Kalamazoo Co. MI" by S.W. Durant, pub. by Everts and Abbott (from Louis Boone 3/1985)
Pg.452: William Duncan. The Duncan family, as the name indicates, was originally from Scotland, but some of its members settled in the north of Ireland, and from them are descended the Duncans of Kalamazoo Co. George Duncan, the father of William, emigrated from Londonderry, Ireland, to America in 1742, when his son William was twelve years of age, and settled in Londonderry [Rockingham Co.], NH, which place has been named in honor of the famous old Irish city.
A second son, John Duncan, was born in Londonderry, NH, on 29 March 1752. John married Margaret Dickey, Feb. 5, 1778, and to them was born, at Acworth [then Cheshire Co.], NH, on 14 Oct. 1778, William Duncan, the subject of this memoir.
William remained with his father until he was 26 years of age, when he married Ruth Coffran Gilmore, in Feb. 1805. To this couple were born the following children: Delamore, Nov. 24, 1805; John Gilmore, July 14, 1807; Corina Jane, April 5, 1811; Eliza Ann, Oct. 19, 1814; William Jr., June 3, 1818.
In 1805 the family removed from Acworth to Lyman [Grafton Co.], NH, where Mr. Duncan became a prominent citizen. He was a justice of the peace for several years, and on 20 July 1810 was commissioned captain in the 10th company of the 32d Regiment, State militia, by Governor John Langdon. He soon after removed to Monroe, in the same State, where he ... until 1821, when the death of his wife broke up the family. In 1822, leaving his children with his father and brothers, he went into the lumbering business on the CT River, until 1824, when he removed to Syracuse, NY ... in April, 1825, in company with his son Delamore, who had joined him, he started for the Territory of Michigan ... to Dexter, in Washtenaw Co., on 3 May, ... until 3 Sept. following, when his son went to Brecksville, Cuyahoga Co. OH. In May, 1826, Mr. Duncan also proceeded to Brecksville ... In March, 1827, he went to Lyme, Huron Co. OH, where he purchased a farm ... On 1 Jan. 1828 he married Mrs. Lydia Wood, a widow, and on 1 April 1829 sold his farm and proceeded once more to Michigan. ... returned to OH; 5 Oct. 1829 left OH with his family, consisting of wife, two sons Delamore and William, daughter Eliza Ann, and stepdau. Lydia Wood, and returned to Prairie Ronde. .... In April, 1830, in Brady Twp, then part of St. Joseph Co., included present county of Kalamazoo, William Duncan ...
1881 "History of Stark County, with an outline sketch of Ohio" ed. by William Henry Perrin, pub. by Baskin & Battey (FHL book 977.162 H2p; other minor references not copied; also on FHL film 1,000,342 item 1 and 1,036,675 item 1)
Pg.380-3: The embarrassment in all business matters, stagnation of trade, and especially the ruin of commerce upon the ocean, upon which New England subsisted, occasioned by the war of 1812, drove many shipmasters and New England people to the West, and the year 1814 was strongly marked by the increase from that quarter. Among those who came into Perry Twp. that year were Gilbertharp Earle and his family, Capt. James Duncan, a retired shipmaster from the merchant service, his residence having been at Portsmouth [Rockingham Co.], NH, and many others. .... When Mr. Duncan left Portsmouth, his objective point was the State of VA, that portion now incl. in WV, and especially Brooke and Ohio Counties. At Wheeling [Ohio Co.], he had friends, Messrs. Jacob Atkinson and Peabody Atkinson, brothers, and a Mr. Peterson. He remained in those counties for a year or two, and married Miss Eliza T. Vilette, and with the two brothers Atkinson ... to visit the "Rotch Settlement" ... to Kendal. (similar to 1925 history) ... town being called Massillon, name suggested by Mrs. Duncan, who was a fine French scholar, and a niece of Hon. Charles Hammond, one of early editors of Cincinnati "Gazette" and woman of rare education and social qualities.
MAD: James Duncan is also referred to on pg.71 in the 1925? "A standard history of Stark County, Ohio: an authentic narrative of the past, with particular attention to the modern era in the commercial, industrial, civic and social development; a chronicle of the people, with family lineage and memoirs" by John H. Lehman, pub. by Lewis Publishing, no date on title page (FHL book 977.162 H2L)
ca1887-1889 "American ancestry : giving the name and descent, in the male line, of Americans whose ancestors settled in the United States previous to the Declaration of Independence, A.D., 1776" 12 Vols., ed. by Thomas Patrick Hughes and Frank Munsell (from Dale O. Duncan 10/1983; FHL book 973 D2a, Vol.9-12 on FHL film 496,941 items 1-4, Vol.9 on FHL fiche 6,088,644)
Vol.IX, pg.145: DUNCAN, MOSES GRANVILLE of Antrim [Hillsborough Co.], N.H., b. there, July 20, 1841, farmer, traveling salesman (m. Oct. 3, 1872, Augusta C. Spaulding of Francistown, N.H., and had 5 children, viz.: Edith Augusta, b. Aug. 25, 1873; Anna Elizabeth, b. Dec. 13, 1875; Harry Spaulding, b. June 22, 1878; Ethel Caroline, b. Nov. 12, 1882; Grace Maria, b. Aug. 11, 1883);
son of WILLIAM of Antrim, N.H., b. there, Oct. 30, 1806, d. there, May 27, 1886, prosperous farmer, held some town offices (m. Feb. 3, 1831, Betsey Rice, and [had] George, b. Nov. 10, 1831; Wm. Henry, b. Dec. 10, 1834; Carrie E., b. Nov. 7, 1838; John Edwin, b. Mar. 25, 1836; and Moses G., above);
son of ROBERT of Antrim, N.H., b. in Londonderry [Rockingham Co.], N.H., Dec. 28, 1763, d. in Antrim, Sept. 26, 1837, pioneer farmer, a worthy citizen, genial and fond of his relatives, much given to hospitality and full of anecdotes (m. Feb. 18, 1790 Grissy Wilson of Londonderry, b. Nov. 11, 1762 (dau. of Thos. and Sarah), and had Rev. Thomas, b. Mar. 3, 1791; John, b. Sep. 7, 1796; William, above; Griswold, b. June 15, 1799; Hannah, b. Jan. 23, 1793; Jane, b. May 19, 1804; Sarah b. Dec. 4, 1794, d. young; and Sarah, b. Oct. 6, 1801);
son of JOHN of Londonderry, N.H., b. in Ireland, 1729, d. in Londonderry, N.H., Nov. 15, 1799, farmer, merchant, fairly well educated, possessed strong characteristics of the Scotchman in speech and shrewdness (m. about 1760, Hanna Henry, b. 1738 (dau. of Robt. and Charity) and had six children, viz: Robert, above; John, b. 1767, d. Jan. 24, 1852; William, b. 1771, d. Aug. 16, 1849; Sally, b. Aug. 27, 1774, d. Feb. 10, 1860; Hannah, b. Nov. 9, 1777, d. July 24, 1852; and Rachel, d. 1854);
son of JOHN, b. in Ireland, well educated, came with some means to Londonderry, N.H., purchased land there (m. Rachel Todd (dau. of Jas. and Rachel), and had: John, above; George; Abraham, b. 1740, d. Mar. 1, 1805; William, b. Feb. 20, 1726, d. Oct. 23, 1764; James; Naomi; Polly; Rachel; Rosanna; and Robert, b. 1732, d. Feb. 10, 1759);
son of GEORGE, b. in Ireland, d. in Londonderry, N.H., m. Margaret Cross); came with his wife to America bringing his children, viz.: John the eldest, probably by a former marriage, George, William, Robert, Abraham, Esther and James.
1880 "Memorial record of the fathers of Wisconsin : containing sketches of the lives and career of the members of the constitutional conventions of 1846 and 1847-8 : with a history of early settlement in Wisconsin" by Horace A. Tenney, pub. Madison, Wis.: D. Atwood, 1880 (part from Kathy D. Cawley 12/2006 and part from images on HeritageQuest 1/2007)
Pg.243-244. HON. SAMUEL R. McCLELLAN. SAMUEL R. McCLELLAN was born in the town of Coleraine, Franklin county, Massachusetts, March 19, A.D. 1806. His father, Capt. ROBERT McCLELLAN, was a son of Col. HUGH McCLELLAN, a soldier of the revolution. His mother, SARAH TODD DUNCAN, was born in Londonderry, New Hampshire, a daughter of GEORGE DUNCAN, one of the early settlers of that town. The death of his father before he was five years old was a great blow to his mother, who was left with five children - three girls and two boys - of whom he is the elder. At the age of nine years he went to live with an uncle, his father's brother, JOHN McCLELLAN, M.D., who proved a second father to him.
At an early age he commenced the study of medicine with his uncle, and in 1826, attended medical lectures in Boston. He returned to Columbia county, New York, the residence of his uncle, with whom he studied in the spring of 1827, and soon after was licensed to practice medicine by the medical society of that county. After practicing with his uncle a year and a half, he removed to the village of Claverack, seven miles from his uncle's residence, where he remained two and a half years. In the fall of 1830, he was married to CATHARINE GARNER, orphan daughter of MARTIN GARNER and CYNTHIA HUYCK GARNER, of the town of Ghent, Columbia county. Soon after his marriage he went back to the village of Johnstown, the residence of his uncle, and practiced with him five years. In the spring of 1836, he removed to the city of Hudson, and very soon acquired a full practice, and in the spring of 1839, was complimented with a honorary degree from Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia; was president and censor of the medical society of Columbia county several years, and (pg.244) served four years as delegate to the medical society of the state of New York. After eighteen years of hard labor in his profession, he felt that he was wearing out and a change of some kind seemed absolutely necessary for him, and having a family of four sons and three daughters, he decided to emigrate to the west. He landed at Southport (now Kenosha), July 5, 1845. Here he rested a few weeks to recruit his health, and in the fall of the same year, he began to improve his farm in the town of Wheatland (now Randall), and moved on it the following winter.
In the fall of 1847, he was elected from the county of Racine a member of the Constitutional Convention which formed the constitution of this state. He served on the committee on the judiciary, and was an intelligent, hardworking and highly respected member of the convention. He early interested himself in agricultural pursuits, and served three years as president of the agricultural society of Kenosha county; was elected senator of the eighth senatorial district in the fall of 1857, and served with great acceptance to his people during the regular term. He afterward removed to the city of Kenosha and practiced his profession nearly nine years, when he again retired to his farm, where he now resides. His post-office address is Wilmot, Kenosha county, Wisconsin.
Dr. McCLELLAN is still engaged in the practice of his profession, and is deemed a very skillful physician. As a citizen, he stands very high with his people. He is now (1880) in the seventy-fifth year of his age, but retains both his mental and physical vigor in a remarkable degree. His life has been a long and a busy one, that has been of great usefulness to the world.
1898 "Portrait and biographical record of Denver and vicinity, Colorado : containing portraits and biographies of many well known citizens of the past and present : together with biographies and portraits of all the presidents of the United States." (anonymous); pub. Chicago: Chapman Pub. Co. (LH11676, HeritageQuest images 4/2007; FHL book 978.8 D3bp and film 1,000,144 item 3)
Pg.149-150: HON. JOHN W. NESMITH. ... From Parker's history of Londonderry, N.H., pg.290, we quote ... "James Nesmith (2), son of James (1), was also born in Ireland ... he lived at Londonderry, and had children ... and John, who married Elizabeth, sister of Gen. George Reid, and died at Londonderry in 1815, aged 87. John and Elizabeth left the following-named children: ... Arthur, who married May Duncan and moved to Ohio, ..." (MAD: May, not Mary) (MAD: Londonderry, Rockingham Co. NH)
1861 "The history of Haverhill [Essex Co.], Massachusetts : from its first settlement, in 1640, to the year 1860" by George Wingate Chase; pub. Haverhill Mass.: The author. (LH5802, HeritageQuest images 2/2007; FHL book 974.45/H1 H2c reprint)
Pg.628-629: DUNCAN, GEORGE, son of George, (who lived and died in Ireland) came to this country with the early settlers of Londonderry [Rockingham Co.] N.H., accompanied with his second wife, Margaret Cross, and his seven children. They were John, the eldest by a former marriage; and George, William, Robert, Abraham, Esther, and James, by the second marriage.
James, son of the above George, married Elizabeth Bell, third daughter of John and Elizabeth Bell, and was a merchant in Haverhill, Mass. He died in 1818, aged 92 years. His wife died in ----, aged about 47 years. Their children were, John, who died unmarried; Samuel, of Grantham, N.H., who married a Miss Emerson, and had several children; Robert, who was a Representative of Grantham, married a Miss Emerson, had a son, Samuel B., and died in 1807; Abraham; William, who lived in Concord, N.H., married a Miss Harris, had a son James, and three daughters, and died about 1795, (his widow removed to Ohio with her son James, and died in 1835); James, who married Rebecca White, of Haverhill, and died January 5, 1822, leaving two sons, Col. Samuel W., who died October 21, 1824, aged 34, and Hon. James H., who married Mary, daughter of Benjamin Willis, of Boston; Elizabeth, who married John Thaxter, Esq., of Haverhill, and afterward Joshua Carter, of Boston; Margaret, who married Thomas Baldwin, D.D., of Boston; Mary; and three others.
Hon. James H. Duncan, was born in Haverhill, Mass., December 5, 1793. His father, James Duncan, Esq., was a prominent merchant, and a descendant of the colony of Scotch-Irish who settled Londonderry, N.H. His mother, Rebeccah White, was a descendant of William White, one of the first settlers of Haverhill. The subject of this sketch early manifested a love for books, and having passed the usual course of preparation at Phillips' Exeter Academy, entered Harvard University, in 1808, at the early age of fourteen. Notwithstanding his youth, he maintained a high rank in scholarship, and graduated in 1812, with an honorable part. Having pursued the study of the Law in the offices of Hon. John Varnum, at Haverhill, and Leverett Saltonstall, Esq., at Salem, he was admitted to the Essex Bar in 1815, and immediately entered upon the practice of his profession, in Haverhill, and continued in it with fidelity and success until he took his seat in Congress, in 1849, when he resigned the active duties of the pression.
A short time previous to his admission to the Bar, he was elected Ensign in the Haverhill Light Infantry Company, of which he was a member, and, passing through the various grades of militia service, he rose to the rank of Colonel, which office he held several years, and until he resigned his commission. (MAD: more on his House of Representatives election and service as a public official and service in the National Republican Convention at Harrisburg; real estate owner, etc.) He has for many years resided upon the beautiful estate, corner of Main and Sumner Streets, originally owned by Moses B. Moody, Esq. ... (no other genealogical info)
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